Vila Franca do Campo

Swim with dolphins

Begin the excursion with an introduction to cetaceans (whales and dolphins) and other marine species, their natural habitat, communication, migration, and behavioral patterns. After the briefing, board the designated boat and head out to sea. Approach the whales slowly and carefully as the naturalist guides and marine biologists on board provide commentary. Next, take a tour around the Princess Ring Islet of Vila Franca do Campo, for an up-close look at the volcano and resident wildlife. Light food is permitted on board, and a camera is essential to capture the wildlife you spot on the tour.

Explore the highlights of the eastern half of São Miguel island on a guided tour by van. Discover the hot springs at Furnas, the waterfall at Ribeira dos Caldeirões, as well as the remote rugged beauty of the Nordeste region. Enjoy the beautiful scenery along the northern coast of the island until you get to the Santa Iria Lookout, with a spectacular, ample view of the north coast in both directions, before continuing to Furnas. Find yourself in Furnas and admire a spectacular panoramic stop to gaze over the lake and town. Descend where you will be given the choice of visiting the geothermal fields and tasting the sparkling waters, or bathing in the hot springs, for an additional fee. Next, discover a traditional way of cooking as your lunch of cozido (stew) is pulled from the warm volcanic soil. In the afternoon, continue the journey eastward, with a stop at the charming waterfall of Ribeira dos Caldeirões.  Explore Nordeste, the most unexplored and rural part of the island. Visit two amazing lookouts over the high cliffs that characterize the East coast of São Miguel, before returning to Ponta Delgada.

Discover the life that lies deep in the Azores Sea from the comfort of this glass-bottom boat, with an expert crew and guide. Your adventure begins at Vila Franca do Campo Marina. A biologist will give you a briefing about the itinerary and then you can set off. Learn about the marine life, nature, and historical curiosities of Vila Franca do Campo. You can spot the unique sea life of the protected area and observe the seabirds and crustaceans that fill the islet landscape. The biologist will help you identify the species, but you can expect to see everything from colorful shoals of fish, to starfish, sea cucumbers, and underwater volcanic activity. When you want to cool off you can go for a swim and snorkel, and get closer to some of the wildlife you've been spotting.

Depart from the Marina of Vila Franca do Campo, starting with a short briefing introducing the islet’s geology and wildlife, the nature reserve, and boat safety. Follow the guide and skipper to your designated boat to travel by sea to the Islet. Enjoy a boat exploration to admire the volcanic marvel, its extraordinary geological features, and the seasonal highlights of marine life, with an enchanting narrative while circling the Ilhéu de Vila Franca do Campo. Learn about the volcanic activity's significance in the island's history, symbolizing the resilient embrace of life on the edge of the Atlantic. A relic of an oceanic volcanic cone, see the marine sanctuary teeming with wildlife, from birds and fish to lightfoot crabs, especially from fall to spring.

Guided boat tour around the islet of Vila Franca do Campo, with a full presentation of the different spots of the islet. On this tour we present the vast biodiversity of the islet, aswell as its history and the many sports events that have occured on the islet. The tour also has the possibility to swim or even snorkel at the front of the islet. On this tour we show all the possible diving and swimming spots around the islet, we include all equipment for a quick snorkel at the end of the tour if needed.

Start your adventure at the Marina of Vila Franca do Campo, in the village with the same name, where one of the main tourist attractions of São Miguel Island is located – the islet of Vila Franca do Campo. The islet is classified as a Protected Area and is the result of a submerged ancient volcano where its flooded crater formed a semicircle. After the meeting and introduction, we will proceed with the distribution of equipment and then a safety briefing. With the orientation of the guide, we will depart from the marina in the direction of the islet where the adventure will begin. We will explore the emblematic Islet of Vila Franca do Campo, circumnavigating it and discovering its hidden caves. This islet is also known by the name Anel da Princesa “Princess Ring”, and in the company of local guides, you will learn about the legends, stories, curiosities, and events that make this place so special and unforgettable. Upon reaching the inside of the islet, you can relax on the small beach that forms during low tide or venture inside to better know the fauna and flora of this protected area. Take the opportunity to dive and refresh yourself in the crystal-clear waters of the Atlantic Ocean while admiring and learning about marine biodiversity. After a relaxing break and free time to explore this islet, we return to the starting point where the activity will conclude. In total, approximately 5 kilometers will be covered. Note: The duration of this excursion depends on weather conditions and the abilities of the group. The safety of our clients is one of our priorities, as this activity is dependent on sea and weather conditions and may be canceled or rescheduled. ACCESS TO THE ISLET OF VILA FRANCA DO CAMPO: The islet of Vila Franca is a Protected Area, and there is a concern to preserve this location. Therefore, there are some restrictions and limitations on access according to the time of year: - From April 15th to June 14th - Walking and snorkeling inside the islet are not allowed. - From June 15th to October 15th - No restrictions (walking and snorkeling are permitted). - From October 16th to October 31st - Snorkeling inside the islet is not allowed (snorkeling outside and walking inside are permitted). - From November to April 14th - Only walking inside the islet is permitted (snorkeling inside and outside the islet is not allowed).

Explore São Miguel's Natural Wonders: Tea Plantations, Hot Springs, and More! Discover the breathtaking natural beauty of São Miguel with our guided tour, starting right from your accommodation. Immerse yourself in lush landscapes, stunning vistas, and captivating landmarks throughout your journey. Begin your adventure with a visit to Gorreana Tea Plantation, Europe's oldest tea plantation, and enjoy complimentary tea tasting amidst the picturesque plantation. Stroll through the tea fields, taking in the serene surroundings. Next, make your way to Furnas, where you'll explore the enchanting valley and indulge in a soothing dip in the hot springs, a perfect opportunity to reconnect with nature. After your revitalizing hot spring experience, enjoy a traditional lunch in Furnas and have the famous “Cozido das Furnas” or explore the diverse menu options available. Following lunch, take a leisurely walk around the picturesque lagoon to fully embrace the natural beauty. Continue your journey with a visit to the viewpoint of the world-renowned islet of Vila Franca, known for its unique charm and allure. Finally, conclude your unforgettable tour in Ponta Delgada with a visit to the captivating pineapple plantations. Book now to embark on an unforgettable adventure through São Miguel's natural wonders! NOTE: - Pickup time is between 8:45 and 9:30 a.m. Delays may be expected, due to traffic or high number of passengers; - Pickups outside of Ponta Delgada may be charged extra, depending on the location requested.

There's no better way to enjoy the Azores islands than renting a Kayak to explore the Atlantic Ocean. Enjoy the freedom of paddling in an open sea along the unique coastline of Vila Franca do Campo, where you can spot the beautiful islet. Rent it for yourself or bring the family aboard (up to 4). We have single, double and quadruple kayaks. Quadruple kayaks are suitable for 3 adults or 2 adults with 2 children (up to 12 years old). All experience levels are welcome and the equipment is provided for free (vest and paddle). There are 3 kayak rental booking options: 2h, 4h or 6h duration. The kayaks are safe and comfortable, appropriate for the ocean, therefore difficult to flip in the sea and don't sink. Please note that this is a kayak rental and not a kayak tour. We look forward to welcoming you! IMPORTANT: The islet of Vila Franca do Campo is a protect area open to the public from June 15th to October 11th. Before and after these dates it is prohibited to enter the islet. It is possible to enter until October 11th and there is a daily entry limit. Those interested in entering with the kayak on the islet (from June 15th to October 11th) will have to buy an additional ticket at a ticket office located near the activity provider's store. The islet’s ticket office opens at 9:45, so if you want to purchase a ticket, you must reserve your kayak for later. We recommend that you come early to buy tickets to avoid them selling out. Kayaks are allowed on the islet from 10:20 a.m. to 6 p.m. We are not responsible for people who are unable to purchase entry tickets to the islet. Our service is exclusively related to kayak rental, regardless of the destination of the activity.

Depart Ponta Delgada and journey along the south coast of São Miguel before heading towards the Furnas Valley to experience its dramatic volcanic landscape. Stop at the village of Lagoa en route and visit a traditional pottery. Marvel at the former capital of the island at Vila Franca do Campo. Upon arrival in the Furnas Valley, go to the lake to enjoy a lunch of authentic cozido na caldeira (traditional Portuguese stew) cooked using the heat of the volcanic soil. Savor the ingredients characteristic of this typical dish. Next, go to the belvedere of the Pico do Ferro for a panoramic view of the valley. Return to Ponta Delgada via the island's north road, and stop at the site of Europe's only tea plantations and tea factory.

Join us in this 3h kayaking tour to the marine volcano, Princess Ring Islet in Vila Franca do Campo, as it offers a memorable experience for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. As you set off on your kayak, you’ll be surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Atlantic Ocean and the volcanic formations that adorn the islet. During the tour, knowledgeable guides will provide fascinating insights into the local culture, ecology, history, geology, enhancing your appreciation of this unique environment. Paddle along the stunning coastline of the ex-capital of the Azores, exploring hidden caves, impressive rock formations and observe a diverse array of marine life, both under and above the waterline. The translucid azure thrusts you to take a refreshing dip, bring your swimwear and snorkeling gear. Dive into the clear depths and be amazed by the vibrant world that lies beneath the surface, a place of beauty and curious neighbors, an advice though! Reach into that primal instinct and embrace the synergy, resonance and symbiotic connection to this incredible natural world.